When the review of Risen is negative, combat always seems to be one of the major sticking points. I think that these type of people just dont get it, and want more of a straightforward hack and slasher. I'm w/ you, I think it's a pretty cool system - but it's anything but straightforward, you need to spend some time w/ it to see what your different styles of blows and such will do. Every type of opponent needs to be evaluated, how and when do they strike. Very rarely can i just run at something and flail away til it's dead. You at least have to block or step out of the way quickly, and if humanoid you better be ready to parry. It can be a bit tricky, but it's all about the timing of your parries and blows (when sword wielding at least), i think it's great.
I generally soften up or pull enemies a little from afar w/ a bow, then alternate between a bastard sword & shield (generally animals & monsters) or a two-handed sword for humans & humanoid opponents. And talon moths. It's really satisfying to slice thru a few of them at once and send em squealing to the ground, flailing away in unison! ='.'=
Ive gotten into some pretty pitched sword battles in those ruins, w/ multiple skeletons coming at me w/ a variety of arms. Another fun thing to do (and use for training) is turn traitor and start attacking people in the middle of the bandit camp and harbor town and see how long you can last. I can pretty much kill everyone now @ level12 that can be killed, unfortunately there's a lot of invincibles. Good swordfighting practice tho